Annex I habitats present as a qualifying feature, but not a primary
reason for selection of this site

Annex II species that are a primary reason for selection of this site

The Grimersta river and loch system represents a high-quality salmon Salmo salar population in the Western Isles. The system has a high proportion of lacustrine rearing area for salmon, in contrast to their more usual preference for riverine conditions. These unusual habitat conditions are found elsewhere in the Atlantic salmon’s range in Newfoundland and in parts of Iceland. Whilst there is considerable habitat diversity in the Grimersta, its overall productivity is limited by the oligotrophic conditions which are found throughout the system.
Although a high proportion of the catchment is accessible to salmon, Grimersta’s comparatively small size in relation to those on the mainland means that it only supports a small proportion of the Scottish salmon population, but it is the best salmon system in the Western Isles.

Annex II species present as a qualifying feature, but not a primary
reason for site selection

Not applicable.

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